Cole N.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
By: Linda N.

Survivor

Cole is our 18 year old son. He suffered a near fatal stroke at the age of 16. The stroke was a result of blockage to his basilar artery in the brain stem. Cole was in a coma for weeks, and we had no idea what his recovery would be. Approximately seven weeks after his stroke, Cole stood for 15 seconds with the help of three therapists. Ten weeks after his stroke, Cole took his first step with help from the therapists. Cole spoke his first word "Hi," three months after stroke. After 104 days at a Milwaukee hospital, Cole returned home and six months after stroke he returned to school part days.  

Because of optic nerve damage to Cole's eyes, he had surgery to adjust muscles to center eyes and also attach apron strings from eyebrow to eyelid so when Cole raises his eyebrows, his eyes open. Cole continues to have issues with impulsiveness as the brain filter is not as fast as his reactions. His speech is near normal, and he is walking with a walker. He has some left hand weakness and will always have his vision problems. 

He is a wonderful young man filled with a positive attitude. We are so proud of him and grateful to the medical care he has received, and all of the special people that have touched all of our lives.